The Cancer Survivorship Peer Support Service provides one‑to‑one support for HSE staff affected by cancer. You’ll be matched with a trained colleague who has been through a similar experience. They can offer practical help with daily challenges and support you as you return to work. Conversations with the service are confidential. The service is delivered in partnership with the Marie Keating Foundation.
Cancer Survivorship Peer Support Service - mariekeating.ie
Who can use the service
The service is available to anyone directly employed by the HSE.
How the service can support you
The service can help you with concerns such as:
- talking to your family and friends about your cancer
- talking about your cancer at work
- understanding the supports available to you at work - both while you are off and when you return
- learning from the real‑life experience of someone who has been through something similar
Information for managers
Managers have an important role in creating a supportive and understanding workplace for colleagues affected by cancer.
You can support your colleagues by:
- keeping conversations private and handling them sensitively
- giving your colleague your full attention without interruptions
- agreeing on regular check‑ins to make sure support continues
- explaining HSE policies, schemes, and medical certificate requirements during their absence
- working with your colleague to create a return‑to‑work plan that suits their abilities and service needs
- being flexible with the plan, as they may only discover what they can manage once they’re back at work
Line Manager Checklist (PDF, 152 KB, 2 pages)
How to access the service
You can contact the coordinator confidentially:
Email: hsestaff@mariekeating.ie
Phone: 087 334 0235